The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) provides victims of crime with financial assistance to help them recover from violent crime.
It helps with costs that arise from being a victim of a violent act, such as:
- counselling
- medical expenses
- loss of earnings
- other expenses that help a victim recover.
The scheme allows victims of violent crimes to make an online application for financial assistance. Victims can do this without needing to attend court or face others involved in the violent crime.
The scheme can provide applicants with up to either $50,000 or $60,000. Some applicants may also be eligible for up to an additional $25,000 (depending on a range of eligibility criteria).
Applicants will need to supply documents as part of their application to support their request.
Marra Yattakunar Pathway
The FAS has a dedicated pathway for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims of violent crime, known as the Marra Yattakunar Pathway.
The Marra Yattakunar Pathway has specialist workers you can ask to speak with on matters related to your application, known as the Marra Yattakunar Team.
Our Marra Yattakunar Team are specialist staff trained on best practices for working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The Marra Yattakunar Team can also help you access other support services that you may be more comfortable with, including Aboriginal-centric services.
FAS Commitment statements
The Victim Commitment statement sets out the key principles that the FAS is committed in upholding to provide a responsive, compassionate and empowering environment that aids in recovery and healing for victims of violent crime.
The Cultural Safety Commitment statement sets out the key principles that the FAS is committed to upholding to provide an inclusive and culturally safe service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by violent crimes.
The Child Safe Commitment statement sets out the key principles that the FAS is committed to upholding to ensure the safety, wellbeing, healing and recovery of children and young people who have experienced the impacts of violent crime.
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